Cast and Crew of Running on Empty

Running on Empty

"Running on Empty" centers on the Pope family, who live in constant fear of discovery after the parents, Annie and Arthur Pope, set fire to a weapons lab in the late 1960s to protest the Vietnam War. As fugitives living under assumed identities, their son Danny struggles with the desire to forge his own path while remaining loyal to the family's secretive life. The film stars Christine Lahti as Annie Pope and River Phoenix as Danny Pope.

Trivia:
1. River Phoenix, who played Danny, was known for his intense dedication to roles; for this film, he immersed himself deeply into the character's emotional conflicts, contributing to the authenticity of his performance.
2. The film's director, Sidney Lumet, is renowned for his meticulous directing style, which helped bring a thoughtful and poignant tone to the story about family and political activism.
3. "Running on Empty" was well-received critically, earning several award nominations, including two Academy Award nominations for Best Supporting Actor (River Phoenix) and Best Original Screenplay, highlighting its strong performances and compelling narrative.

Main Cast of Running on Empty

Christine Lahti as Annie Pope

Christine Lahti

Annie Pope
River Phoenix as Danny Pope

River Phoenix

Danny Pope
Judd Hirsch as Arthur Pope

Judd Hirsch

Arthur Pope

Crew of Running on Empty

Full backstage crew list →